What's in My Pantry? Top Chefs' Favorite Pantry Staples of 2025

What's in My Pantry? Top Chefs' Favorite Pantry Staples of 2025

July 21, 2025

Overview

Want to elevate your cooking game? Discover the must-have pantry essentials favored by top chefs in 2025. This guide uncovers the secrets behind professional kitchens, revealing the ingredients and products that form the foundation of delicious and impressive meals. From premium olive oils and vinegars to unique spices and smart storage solutions, learn how to stock your pantry with the best to unlock your culinary potential and transform everyday cooking into a gourmet experience.

Molly Breckenhood

In this guide

Essential Oils: The Chefs' Top PicksExotic Spices: Elevate Your CookingGrains and Legumes: The Foundation of MealsPantry-Friendly Vegetables: Freshness that LastsChef's Favorite Pantry Storage SolutionsSecret Ingredients: The Undiscovered Gems

Our picks

The Best Olive Oil for Restaurant-Quality Flavor: Lucini Extra Virgin Olive Oil, $19.65

The Most Exotic Spice Blend for Global Cuisine: Spiceology Greek Freak Seasoning, $16.82

The Best Grain for Hearty and Healthy Dishes: Yumepirika Hokkaido Short Grain Rice, $27.99

The Best Pantry Vegetable for Year-Round Freshness: Barilla Spaghetti Rigati, $33.20

The Best Airtight Containers for Pantry Organization: Praknu Kitchen Storage Jars, $23.89

The Secret Ingredient That Elevates Any Dish: Yondu Umami Essence, $7.99

The Best Legume for Flavor and Protein: Bob's Red Mill Rolled Oats, $6.90

Essential Oils: The Chefs' Top Picks

Discover the premium olive oils and other essential oils that chefs swear by for flavor and quality.

Original Ghee

$12.99

Original Ghee is a versatile ingredient that enhances a variety of dishes, offering a rich, nutty flavor with a high smoke point, perfect for high-heat cooking methods such as frying and roasting. Although some users have noted recent packaging changes and possible leaking issues, it remains a lactose-free staple, especially useful for those with lactose intolerance. Our experience shows that its richness can transform ordinary foods into indulgent creations.

Fourthandhea... logo

$12.99

at Fourthandhea...

The Good

Rich, nutty flavor enhances various dishes.

High smoke point suitable for frying and roasting.

Lactose-free, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance.

The Bad

Some customers reported issues with packaging, including leaking jars.

Recent changes from glass to plastic jars have been noted.

Some users found the product to be more 'runny' than expected.

Organic: false / Gluten Free: true / Vegan: false / Non-GMO: true


Lucini Extra Virgin Olive Oil

$19.65

Lucini Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a pantry essential for those who cherish quality and flavor. Its rich, non-GMO, and vegan formula makes it suitable for all culinary adventures, from cooking to seasoning. While some users find it slightly bitter, others appreciate its unique almond notes and subtle peppery finish. At $19.65, it may be priced higher than some alternatives, but its versatility and quality make it a worthy investment for elevating everyday dishes.

The Good

Certified Non-GMO, Kosher, Vegan, and Gluten-Free.

The Bad

Some users find the taste too bitter.

Priced higher than some alternatives.

Organic: false / Gluten Free: true / Vegan: true / Non-GMO: true


Yiayia and Friends Extra Virgin Olive Oil

$48.00

Yiayia and Friends Extra Virgin Olive Oil is not just a pantry staple, but an experience of premium quality olive oil from Crete. Cold-pressed to maintain its flavor and nutrition, this stylishly packaged oil elevates your culinary creations. Although its $48.00 price point may deter some, its exceptional characteristics make it a luxurious choice for discerning chefs looking to enhance their dishes with a touch of Greece.

The Good

Cold-pressed to preserve its unique nutritional features and exceptional flavor.

Packaged in a stylish 500ml bottle, perfect for everyday use.

The Bad

Priced at $48.00, which may be considered high for some consumers.

Organic: false / Gluten Free: true / Vegan: true / Non-GMO: true


Bright & Peppery Olive Oil

$22.99

Bright & Peppery Olive Oil from La Tourangelle impresses with its organic, non-GMO pedigree and distinctly vibrant flavor profile. We found its cold-pressed Spanish Picual olives deliver a fresh, slightly peppery essence, perfect for enhancing dressings and marinades. Despite a slightly higher price and a less convenient pouring spout, its complex flavor and high antioxidant levels make it a smart choice for health-conscious cooks.

The Good

Certified organic and non-GMO, ensuring high-quality ingredients.

Cold-pressed from early harvest olives, preserving natural flavor and nutrients.

Bright, slightly peppery flavor ideal for dressings and marinades.

The Bad

Slightly higher price than standard olive oils.

Some users find the pouring spout less convenient.

Limited availability in certain regions.

Organic: true / Gluten Free: true / Vegan: true / Non-GMO: true

Exotic Spices: Elevate Your Cooking

Uncover the must-have spices and spice blends the pros use to create complex and delicious flavors.

Badia Za'atar Seasoning

$7.78

For those seeking a spice blend free of gluten, Badia Za'atar Seasoning is a kosher choice in your pantry. While some users find the flavor slightly mild, its versatility is unmatched for enhancing any dish from grilled veggies to morning toast, particularly when you're on a vegan-friendly diet. Although its packaging lacks detailed ingredients, it's a straightforward, MSG-free option for anyone looking to add Mediterranean flair to their daily meals.

The Good

The seasoning is gluten-free, kosher, and contains no MSG.

The Bad

Some users find the flavor to be bland.

The product lacks a detailed list of ingredients on the packaging.

Organic: false / Gluten Free: true / Vegan: true / Non-GMO: false


S&B Golden Curry Mild

$4.99

S&B Golden Curry Mild is a convenient pantry addition for those quick weekday meals. By simply adding water, you can create a delicious Japanese curry that pleases even the busiest chef. Though its mildness might not satisfy spice enthusiasts, it balances perfectly over rice with meat or veggies. Be mindful of the MSG content if that's a concern, but otherwise, it’s an easy solution for authentic curry experiences at home.

The Good

Easy to prepare by adding water, making it convenient for quick meals.

The Bad

Mild flavor may be too subtle for those preferring spicier curries.

Contains monosodium glutamate (MSG), which some consumers prefer to avoid.

Organic: false / Gluten Free: false / Vegan: false / Non-GMO: false


Aji Amarillo Paste

$3.43

Introduce a touch of Peruvian flair to your culinary creations with Aji Amarillo Paste, a vibrant spice essential for authentic dishes like papas a la Huancaína. Its spicy kick can quickly elevate a variety of recipes, though occasionally arriving with compromised seals. Given its no-return policy, we suggest checking upon arrival, but its unmistakable flavor adds an exciting spice to your pantry repertoire.

The Good

Enhances Peruvian dishes with authentic flavor.

Convenient for adding spice to various recipes.

The Bad

Some jars arrive with broken seals, making them unsafe to consume.

Not eligible for returns, causing inconvenience for customers.

Organic: false / Gluten Free: true / Vegan: true / Non-GMO: false


Maille Old Style Mustard

$11.19

Maille Old Style Mustard is a luxurious addition to any pantry, perfect for adding a gourmet touch with its grainy texture and robust flavor. While it may be pricier than typical mustards and can sometimes leak during shipping, our experience shows that it pairs beautifully with sandwiches and recipes that call for a mustard with a punch. Its complexity adds depth to simple components, making it indispensable for culinary enthusiasts.

The Good

The mustard's grainy texture adds a pleasant crunch to dishes.

The mustard's robust flavor enhances sandwiches and recipes.

The Bad

Some users have reported issues with jar leakage during shipping.

The product is considered pricey compared to other mustards.

Organic: false / Gluten Free: true / Vegan: true / Non-GMO: true


Spiceology Greek Freak Seasoning

$16.82

Infuse your meals with Mediterranean flair using Spiceology Greek Freak Seasoning. Ideal for meats, veggies, and snacks, this gluten-free and vegan blend is lauded for its fresh, bold taste. While some users note the price is slightly high for the quantity, its flavorful, fresh-ground spice mix more than compensates by adding invigorating taste to a wide array of dishes.

The Good

Versatile seasoning suitable for various dishes including meats, vegetables, and even snacks.

The seasoning is praised for its fresh and flavorful taste.

The Bad

Some customers have reported receiving damaged jars upon delivery.

A few customers find the product to be overpriced for the quantity received.

Organic: false / Gluten Free: true / Vegan: true / Non-GMO: true


Organic Tahini

$19.99

Soom's Organic Tahini brings a smooth, creamy texture to recipes from hummus to desserts. Its organic, allergen-free composition ensures versatility while accommodating dietary preferences, though some users note a bitter taste. Despite its $19.99 tag, which is higher than some brands, its quality and nutritious value make it an indispensable addition to your pantry for both sweet and savory dishes.

The Good

Smooth and creamy texture enhances various dishes.

Versatile for both sweet and savory recipes.

Certified organic and free from common allergens.

The Bad

Some users report a bitter taste.

Packaging issues leading to leakage during shipping.

Higher price point compared to other brands.

Organic: true / Gluten Free: true / Vegan: true / Non-GMO: true


ONETANG Dried Shiitake Mushrooms

$22.99

Add a burst of umami to your dishes with ONETANG Dried Shiitake Mushrooms, an organic choice that rehydrates quickly to save you time. These stemless mushrooms pack a rich, authentic flavor into soups, sauces, and more, though their higher price might be a consideration. In our reviews, the strong initial odor mellows with cooking, leaving an irresistible earthiness that elevates any meal.

The Good

The mushrooms rehydrate quickly, saving time in meal preparation.

The mushrooms have a rich, authentic flavor that enhances various dishes.

The product is stemless, reducing preparation time and waste.

The Bad

Some packages may arrive with compromised vacuum sealing, affecting freshness.

Some users report an initial strong odor before rinsing and cooking.

The price point may be higher compared to other dried mushrooms on the market.

Organic: true / Gluten Free: true / Vegan: true / Non-GMO: true

Grains and Legumes: The Foundation of Meals

Explore the grains and legumes top chefs rely on for building the base of their best dishes.

Yumepirika Hokkaido Short Grain Rice

$27.99

Yumepirika Hokkaido Short Grain Rice is a premium choice for dishes where texture is key, credited with a high stickiness and bold flavor from Hokkaido's best grains. Ideal for sushi and rice bowls, it is a gluten-free and non-GMO base for many recipes. While some find the cooking process requires a bit of trial and error to perfect, resulting in texture adjustments, mastering this technique elevates your dish to restaurant quality.

The Good

Yumepirika rice is known for its rich sweetness and strong flavor.

Its stickiness level is among the highest of any rice variety grown in Hokkaido.

The Bad

Some users find that it requires adjusting the cooking water amount to avoid overly soft texture.

The rice may lack shine if not cooked properly.

Organic: false / Gluten Free: true / Vegan: true / Non-GMO: true


Bob's Red Mill Rolled Oats

$6.90

Bob's Red Mill Rolled Oats are a fantastic option for elevating your breakfast or baking endeavors, offering the organic quality chefs often seek. Despite occasional husks, these oats provide a nutritious base for a filling and wholesome start to your day, or as the foundation for a variety of baked treats. Our testing finds them particularly satisfying for crafting heartwarming granolas and cookies, keeping you energized all morning.

The Good

High-quality, organic oats that are versatile for cooking and baking.

The Bad

Some batches may contain husks, affecting the eating experience.

Organic: true / Gluten Free: false / Vegan: true / Non-GMO: true


Bread Flour

$6.95

King Arthur's Bread Flour is the cornerstone for perfect homemade bread, boasting high protein content for excellent gluten development. Although not certified organic, its results speak for themselves, with improved texture in loaves and pizzas. Some customers have noted shipping concerns like packaging tearing, but our review shows its transformative effects in home baking make it a worthy investment.

The Good

High protein content enhances gluten development, resulting in better bread texture.

The Bad

Some customers report issues with packaging durability during shipping.

The flour is not certified organic.

Organic: false / Gluten Free: false / Vegan: true / Non-GMO: false


Bob's Red Mill Gluten Free Baking Flour

$5.19

Bob's Red Mill Gluten Free Baking Flour makes gluten-free baking a breeze with its 1-to-1 substitution for regular flour. Although some bakers find their batters a bit thinner, this non-GMO, vegan flour consistently delivers delicious results in a wide array of baked goods. Priced at $5.19, it’s an affordable staple for any pantry, perfect for anyone aiming to create classic recipes without gluten.

The Good

This flour is a perfect 1-to-1 substitute for regular flour, making gluten-free baking straightforward.

The Bad

Some users report that batters made with this flour can be thinner than expected, leading to issues like cookies spreading more during baking.

Organic: false / Gluten Free: true / Vegan: true / Non-GMO: true


Barilla Spaghetti Rigati

$33.20

Barilla Spaghetti Rigati offers a delicious pasta experience with its unique ridged texture that grips sauces beautifully. Made from non-GMO durum wheat, it’s kosher certified and cooks to al dente perfection in just 6-7 minutes, saving you time in the kitchen. Despite being priced higher than some pasta brands, its ability to enhance any pasta dish with flavor makes it a staple for pasta enthusiasts.

The Good

The ridged texture helps the pasta hold sauces better, enhancing flavor in every bite.

Made from non-GMO durum wheat and is kosher certified, catering to specific dietary preferences.

Cooks to al dente perfection in 6-7 minutes, saving time in meal preparation.

The Bad

Contains wheat, making it unsuitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

The ridged texture may not appeal to those who prefer traditional smooth spaghetti.

Priced higher than some other pasta brands, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious shoppers.

Organic: false / Gluten Free: false / Vegan: true / Non-GMO: true

Pantry-Friendly Vegetables: Freshness that Lasts

Learn about the best pantry-stable vegetables that keep well and add great flavor.

Chaokoh Coconut Milk

$23.99

Chaokoh Coconut Milk brings rich, creamy magic to both savory and sweet creations. Its luscious texture can transform curries, soups, and desserts instantly, despite some concerns over ethical sourcing and dented cans. Priced at $23.99 for a pack of eight, these cans ensure you always have dairy-free decadence at your fingertips, allowing your pantry to rise to any culinary challenge.

The Good

Rich and creamy texture enhances both savory and sweet dishes.

The Bad

Some consumers report concerns about ethical sourcing practices.

Cans often arrive dented, raising concerns about product integrity.

Organic: false / Gluten Free: true / Vegan: true / Non-GMO: false


Dill Pickle Spears

$8.49

Bring garden-fresh flavor to your pantry with Dill Pickle Spears, a kosher-certified, low-calorie treat perfect for guilt-free snacking or adding crunch to meals. Made with all-natural ingredients, these spears do have a tendency for salty notes that might not suit everyone, and some users noted packaging leaks. Despite these quirks, our experience shows their vibrant taste makes them a worthy staple.

The Good

Made with simple, garden-fresh ingredients without artificial preservatives or added colors.

Certified Kosher, catering to dietary preferences.

Low in calories, with only 5 calories per serving.

The Bad

Some customers report that the packaging leaks, even when unopened.

Some find the pickles too salty for their taste.

The lid can be difficult to open and close securely.

Organic: false / Gluten Free: true / Vegan: true / Non-GMO: false

Chef's Favorite Pantry Storage Solutions

Find out the best airtight containers and storage solutions to keep ingredients fresh.

KORALLVIPPA Dry Food Jars (Set of 6)

$14.99

Optimize your pantry with KORALLVIPPA Dry Food Jars, a sleek solution for maintaining the freshness of your staples. Their stackable, transparent design makes accessibility and organization a breeze, though they might not accommodate specific items like spaghetti due to fixed sizes. While not as durable as glass, their lightweight nature and airtight seal make them practical for everyday use in maintaining the aroma and taste of your favorite ingredients.

The Good

Airtight lids preserve aromas and flavors, keeping food fresher for longer.

Stackable design saves space in the pantry.

Transparent material makes it easy to identify contents.

The Bad

Set includes fixed sizes, limiting customization for specific storage needs.

Some users desire taller jars to accommodate items like spaghetti.

Material may not be as durable as glass alternatives.

Organic: false / Gluten Free: false / Vegan: false / Non-GMO: false


Praknu Kitchen Storage Jars

$23.89

Transform your pantry space with Praknu Kitchen Storage Jars. These sleek, square glass jars with bamboo lids offer a modern solution for efficient organization, ensuring an airtight seal to keep your ingredients fresh. While the glass may seem thin, raising durability concerns, their elegant design adds charm to any kitchen. Just be aware that some users experienced packaging issues, so check for any damage upon arrival.

The Good

The square design allows for efficient use of space in cabinets and shelves.

The bamboo lids with silicone seals ensure an airtight closure, keeping contents fresh.

The Bad

The glass seems thin, raising concerns about its durability.

Some users reported receiving broken jars due to inadequate packaging.

Organic: false / Gluten Free: false / Vegan: false / Non-GMO: false

Secret Ingredients: The Undiscovered Gems

Uncover the lesser-known, but essential, ingredients that add a chef's touch.

Kikkoman Less Sodium Soy Sauce

$4.49

Kikkoman Less Sodium Soy Sauce offers the same umami punch with significantly less sodium, ideal for those conscious about salt intake. In our testing, while some found the flavor lighter, it performed well in various applications, from marinades to a simple dipping sauce. It's a great choice for anyone seeking to maintain flavor integrity while reducing sodium, though it contains wheat, so it isn’t suitable for gluten-free needs.

The Good

Contains 38% less sodium than regular soy sauce, making it a healthier option for those monitoring salt intake.

Maintains the rich, umami taste of traditional soy sauce despite reduced sodium content.

Versatile for various cooking applications, including marinades, stir-fries, and as a dipping sauce.

The Bad

Some users find the flavor too light, requiring more sauce to achieve desired taste.

Contains wheat, making it unsuitable for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

Some users find the flavor too light, requiring more sauce to achieve desired taste.

Organic: false / Gluten Free: false / Vegan: true / Non-GMO: false


Opies Pickled Walnuts

$13.84

Opies Pickled Walnuts provide an intriguing twist with their tangy, savory flavor, perfect for gourmet salads or pairing with rich meats. While their high sugar and salt content may be a consideration, their suitability for vegan and vegetarian diets makes them a versatile addition. Be aware they contain barley malt vinegar, which isn’t suitable for those with gluten intolerance. These walnuts are a delightful way to experiment with traditional English fare.

The Good

Suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

The Bad

Contains barley malt vinegar, which may not be suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

High sugar content (26g per 100g).

High salt content (2.6g per 100g).

Organic: false / Gluten Free: false / Vegan: true / Non-GMO: false


Yondu Umami Essence

$7.99

Yondu Umami Essence is a versatile, plant-based seasoning that transforms soups, stir-fries, and sauces with its rich, umami flavor. Certified organic, gluten-free, and vegan, it caters to a wide range of dietary preferences, though some might find its flavor more subtle than expected. While it might seem pricey at $7.99, its ability to elevate the natural flavors of your ingredients makes it a valuable addition to your pantry.

The Good

Versatile seasoning suitable for various dishes including soups, stir-fries, and sauces.

Certified organic, non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan, catering to various dietary preferences.

The Bad

Some users find the product to be on the expensive side.

A few customers mention that the flavor is weaker than expected.

Organic: true / Gluten Free: true / Vegan: true / Non-GMO: true


Red Boat Fish Sauce

$9.95

Red Boat Fish Sauce is a gourmet game-changer, crafted solely from black anchovies and sea salt for a rich and clean flavor. In our testing, its purity and versatility shine in a variety of dishes, turning simple meals into culinary delights. Though its robust aroma and high sodium content may not suit everyone, the umami explosion it provides is unmatched for those who cherish bold flavors.

The Good

Made with just two ingredients: black anchovies and sea salt, ensuring purity and no additives.

Rich, clean flavor without any MSG taste.

Versatile for various dishes, including dipping sauces and marinades.

The Bad

Relatively high price compared to other fish sauce brands.

Strong fishy smell that some may find off-putting.

High sodium content, which may be a concern for some consumers.

Organic: false / Gluten Free: true / Vegan: false / Non-GMO: true


Shio Koji

$8.81

Shio Koji is the versatile secret to unlocking deep umami flavors in your kitchen. This gluten-free ingredient is perfect for marinating meats or crafting complex seasoning profiles, but be mindful of potential delivery delays. In our testing, its ability to tenderize proteins and substitute salt with enhanced taste makes it an exceptional addition to any culinary enthusiast's pantry.

The Good

Enhances umami flavor in various dishes.

Versatile for marinating meats and making pickles.

The Bad

Some users experienced longer delivery times.

Organic: false / Gluten Free: true / Vegan: true / Non-GMO: true

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